28726, East Flat Rock, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28726, East Flat Rock, North Carolina is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.44 percent of the residents in 28726 has some form of health insurance. 36.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.63 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 28726 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,276 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28726. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 384 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,549 health care providers accessible to residents in 28726, East Flat Rock, North Carolina.

The following analysis explores the landscape of lung cancer care and primary care availability in East Flat Rock, North Carolina, focusing on doctors within ZIP code 28726. This assessment considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare ecosystem, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

East Flat Rock, a community nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area can impact access to specialized care, potentially influencing the early detection and treatment of lung cancer. Understanding the local healthcare infrastructure is essential for residents and healthcare providers alike.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A lower ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. In 28726, an assessment of the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state-level medical boards should be consulted to establish a baseline. This data must be regularly updated to reflect the dynamic nature of physician availability.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of specialists is also critical. Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance is a significant factor in patient care. The analysis should identify the presence of these specialists within the ZIP code or in neighboring communities, considering travel times and ease of access.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These are healthcare providers that have demonstrated excellence in lung cancer care. This assessment can be based on several factors. Are there any practices that have been recognized for their quality of care, patient satisfaction, or innovative treatment approaches? Do they participate in clinical trials? Do they have dedicated lung cancer screening programs? Are they members of the American Lung Association? Analyzing patient reviews, outcomes data (where available and compliant with HIPAA regulations), and accreditations can help identify these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in 28726 should be assessed. Does the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals exist? Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists, reducing the need for travel and improving patient convenience. The analysis should also examine the types of telemedicine platforms being used, the ease of use for patients, and any limitations related to technology or insurance coverage.

The integration of mental health resources is an increasingly important aspect of cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health professionals within the community, their experience in working with cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of preventative care and early detection. Access to a primary care physician (PCP) is crucial for regular check-ups, screenings, and the early identification of potential health problems, including lung cancer. The analysis should assess the number of PCPs in the area, their patient load, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. Additionally, the analysis should examine the availability of preventative services, such as lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals.

Addressing the specific needs of the elderly population is also important. Older adults are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer and often face unique challenges in accessing healthcare. The analysis should consider the availability of geriatric specialists, transportation options, and other resources that support the healthcare needs of older adults.

The analysis should also consider the role of community health centers and other safety-net providers. These organizations often serve vulnerable populations and play a critical role in ensuring access to healthcare for all residents. The analysis should assess the services offered by these providers, their capacity to serve the community, and any challenges they face in delivering care.

Furthermore, the analysis should include a review of local resources. Are there any patient support groups, advocacy organizations, or community programs that provide assistance to individuals affected by lung cancer? These resources can play a vital role in providing emotional support, practical assistance, and information to patients and their families.

Finally, the analysis should identify any gaps in care and recommend strategies for improvement. This might include increasing the number of physicians in the area, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health resources, or promoting lung cancer screening programs.

This comprehensive analysis, drawing on data from various sources and incorporating the perspectives of healthcare providers and patients, will provide a valuable assessment of the lung cancer care landscape in 28726 and the primary care availability in East Flat Rock. This will help inform decision-making, improve healthcare delivery, and ultimately, enhance the health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of these healthcare resources and their geographic distribution, explore the power of data visualization. CartoChrome maps can transform complex healthcare data into interactive and easily understandable maps. See how CartoChrome can illuminate the healthcare landscape of 28726.